Yelm Dollars for Scholars/Scholarship America Inc

Yelm Dollars for Scholars, affiliated with Scholarship America Inc, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial support to Yelm High School graduates pursuing post-secondary education. The organization's mission is to empower students through community donations and fundraising efforts.

History

Founded in 1960 as the Yelm Community Scholarship Committee by Bob and Kathy Wolf, it initially awarded two scholarships of $100 each. The organization later changed its name to Yelm Dollars for Scholars and became an affiliate of Scholarship America in 1991. This affiliation has been crucial in expanding its reach and impact.

Impact

Yelm Dollars for Scholars has made a significant impact on the community by raising and distributing over $2.9 million in scholarship awards to Yelm High School graduates. In 2023 alone, the organization proudly awarded 96 scholarships amounting to a collective sum of $135,000.

Scholarship Details

The organization offers merit-based scholarships. The scholarship evaluation process considers academic merit, and if available, the applicants' Expected Family Contribution, ensuring scholarships are awarded based on merit and financial need indirectly[3].

Community Involvement

What sets Yelm Dollars for Scholars apart is its community-driven approach. It involves the entire community, including families, schools, businesses, and numerous individuals who contribute through donations, time, and other efforts. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in its success and longevity.

Affiliation with Scholarship America

As an affiliate of Scholarship America, Yelm Dollars for Scholars benefits from a broader network that has distributed over $4.3 billion to more than 2.8 million students nationwide since its founding in 1958[1]. This affiliation enhances its ability to provide substantial support to local students.

Philanthropic Contributions

The organization offers various ways for individuals and organizations to contribute, including sponsoring their own scholarships, memorial donations, and employee deductions from Yelm Community Schools. These contributions are vital for sustaining and expanding the organization's impact[2].